“You need knee surgery” – Hearing these words can be overwhelming, isn’t it? While knee replacement surgery can be life-changing for the right candidates, it is not always the only option. In fact, in many cases, seeking a second opinion is a good idea. It can help avoid or postpone surgery. You may get to know about alternative treatments that could give you relief from knee pain.
Why a Second Opinion Matters
Medical decisions, especially those involving elective (non-urgent) surgeries, should not be taken in a hurry. Sometimes, knee pain stems from conditions like arthritis, ligament strain, or meniscus tears. These issues can sometimes be managed with non-surgical treatments, such as physiotherapy, orthobiologic injections (PRP, hyaluronic, etc.), weight management, and lifestyle changes. Without exploring these treatment options, you may end up unnecessarily undergoing an invasive procedure.
Different doctors can interpret the same symptoms and tests in slightly different ways. One specialist may recommend surgery right away, while another may advise trying conservative treatment(s) first. A second opinion ensures your diagnosis is accurate, you have explored and tried other treatment options, and your decision is indeed right.
How to Get the Most Out of a Second Opinion
1. Choose the right specialist – Ideally, you should visit an experienced orthopaedic surgeon who is not connected with your first doctor, clinic, or hospital. This reduces the chances of bias and raises the likelihood of getting a fair opinion.
2. Carry all prescriptions, test reports, and scans – Carry whatever reports you have, such as X-rays, MRI, blood tests, along with previous prescriptions. This allows the second doctor to review your case thoroughly and you do not need to go through the hassle of getting tests done again. It will also help you save money.
3. Be open and honest – Share your full medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle habits. Even small details – like how you sit, sleep, or exercise – can affect your bone, knee, and overall health.
4. Ask the right questions – Inquire about non-surgical options, if you are the right candidate for such treatments, their recovery timelines, risks, and success rates for each approach.
5. Compare recommendations – If both doctors are of the opinion that you have crossed the initial stages of knee degeneration where non-invasive treatment options could have proven effective, and that knee replacement surgery is essential for you to regain mobility and get freedom from knee pain, you can rest assured that you should go for the surgery.
On the contrary, if opinions of both the doctors differ and one is hopeful that you can recover with a conservative knee treatment, you may save yourself from an unnecessary procedure.
The Confidence to Decide
Seeking another opinion is not about doubting your doctor – it is about empowering yourself with knowledge. A second opinion can confirm your diagnosis, apprise you of less invasive options, or help you feel reassured that surgery is indeed the right treatment option. When you feel confident that surgery is the way to go, your mindset becomes positive. With this, you tend to recover faster post surgery.
When it is about your health and mobility – you deserve the best possible advice before making a decision. One extra consultation with a trusted orthopaedic expert could save you from an unnecessary surgery, monetary expenses, and other associated hassles. In this context, Dr. Gagandeep Singh Sachdeva would be a worth-mentioning knee doctor in Chandigarh. Thousands of knee patients credit him with their revived mobility and a renewed spirit for life.
Remember: Your health is worth that second opinion, and it is essentially about being impulsive versus exercising wisdom and patience.
